Wet Basement? 4 Ways Your Basement Can Get Damp (And What to Do About It)
If your basement is damp or wet, there are several ways the water could be making its way under your home:
1) Exterior Air
When it is warm outside and that humid air gets inside a cold basement, the basement can become damp and condensation can form.
2) Wicking
Even when a block wall is not leaking, water that is inside the wall could be moving to the surface of the wall, making it damp. This phenomenon is known as capillary action.
3) Water Vapor
Water vapor can make its way into your basement through your floor or walls.
4) Water Leak
Ground water can seep into the soil and leak into your basement through cracks and rod holes. The soil around your home is loosely packed after being dug out and replaced during the home's construction, so it can easily become waterlogged.
So, what should you do if there is moisture or water in your basement?!
First, contact us so one of our inspectors can do a thorough inspection of your home. Once they determine the problem, they will provide you with the options available to solve the issue.
Some solutions for your wet basement may include an interior drainage system, a dehumidifier, a vapor barrier, or some combination of these products:
Interior Drainage System
An interior drainage system is installed beneath the floor around the perimeter of the basement or crawl space. When water gets into the basement from the floor or the walls, it drains into the system where it is then moved to a sump pump and drained outside.
Dehumidifier
Dehumidifiers circulate dry air in your basement, while collecting and removing moisture. This water is then drained into a sump pump pit or a drainage system, or carried away via a condensate pump. They maintain a healthy 55% relative humidity to prevent condensation, mold, mildew and rot. This prevents musty smells from occurring.
Vapor Barrier
Vapor barriers on your basement walls help keep moisture and humidity out of the basement by directing it into an interior drainage system. Plus, the barriers are clean and bright, enhancing the look of your basement while keeping it dry. They're are even vapor barrier that insulate your basement at the same time!
